Richards urged to fight for his AFC Telford future

Midfielder-cum-defender Will Richards has been challenged to force his way into AFC Telford United's plans – by impressing at Solihull Moors.

The 19-year-old has signed non-contract forms at Blue Square Bet North club Moors and has played in their first two games of the season.

But Telford assistant manager Darren Read insists he could still have a long-term future with the Bucks, pointing to former Walsall midfielder Richard Davies as a shining example of what can be achieved.

"We did something similar with Richard by sending him to Chasetown last season and it worked wonders for him," said Read, who was in York for Telford's second game of the season this afternoon.

"He went there and got games under his belt and he's come back to us as a more mature player. He's forced his way into our first team and looks like a good player.

"We still see Will as one of us and we will be keeping an eye on him."

Telford boss Andy Sinton has built a large squad and Read admits other players could go out on loan – though not in the immediate future.

"At this moment it's best we keep them all together," he said. "You never know what is around the corner."

By Chris Hudson